Crystal Gail Fraser Elevates Indigenous Narratives Through Storytelling

Historian and Associate Professor Crystal Gail Fraser is making significant strides in preserving and promoting Indigenous narratives in the Northwest Territories. Her latest book, By Strength, We Are Still Here: Indigenous Peoples and Indian Residential Schooling in Inuvik, Northwest Territories, highlights survival stories of Indigenous peoples, particularly those of the Gwich’in community, who faced the challenges posed by Indian Residential Schools.

Empowering Indigenous Voices

Fraser aims to foster stronger community relationships through storytelling. She believes that “storytelling is how we understand the world, and many nations hold vast repositories of stories.” By sharing these accounts, Fraser hopes to enhance cultural understanding and empathy across diverse communities.

The author is particularly focused on the experiences of Indigenous children in Inuvik and surrounding northern areas who were displaced during a period of inadequate federal oversight. Her research sheds light on survivor testimonies that reveal the harsh realities faced by these children. “I didn’t know much about this either,” Fraser remarked regarding her initial ignorance about Indian Residential Schools in the North. However, the publication of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action in 2015 served as a catalyst for her work.

Embedded within Fraser’s narrative is a profound exploration of ancestral strength, illustrating how communities overcome adversity and support one another during difficult times. Her book serves both as an academic contribution and an expansion of her PhD thesis, allowing her to engage more effectively with her audience.

Lessons from Trauma Research

As Fraser delved into trauma research, she emphasized the importance of self-care for those in this field. “Take better care of oneself while writing stories,” she advises. “Look after yourself and keep things simple.” This approach underscores the emotional weight of the stories she shares and the responsibility she feels in preserving them.

In her role as a steward of Indigenous narratives, Fraser argues that these stories deserve the same respect as any other shared experience. She encourages learners and the broader community to cultivate curiosity about Indigenous histories and the narratives that continue to unfold.

In addition to her writing, Dr. Crystal Gail Fraser, who is affiliated with Indigenous Consulting Services Inc., offers a range of consulting services. These include scholarly and historical research, decolonial and anti-racist methodologies, professional and creative writing, as well as community engagement with Indigenous Nations. Her work also encompasses facilitation for workshops, meetings, professional development, and policy development.

Fraser’s efforts represent a vital step in ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and respected within the broader narrative of Canadian history. By illuminating these stories, she not only honors the past but also paves the way for a more inclusive future.